Former Sky News business presenter Ian King has made his debut on GB News, offering analysis on the newly signed minerals deal between Ukraine and the United States.
The agreement, finalised in the past 24 hours, establishes a joint investment fund focused on Ukraine's natural resources.
King provided viewers with insights into the strategic importance of the deal for both nations.
The agreement comes after months of negotiations between the Trump administration and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, following their meeting at Pope Francis' funeral on Saturday.
Ian King made his GB News debut today
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King told GB News: "It's worth pointing out that, actually, this deal has already unlocked military aid to Ukraine.
"The White House has announced that military assistance will be provided. That’s the first time Donald Trump has approved such aid since he was President.
"Now it looks as if Ukraine has secured quite a good deal compared to what was initially proposed.
"If you recall, prior to that White House bust-up, Donald Trump was insisting that Ukraine repay the United States for military assistance rendered thus far. There’s nothing in the agreement about that.
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"Obviously, some of the revenues going forward will by the looks of it help repay America for future military assistance, but that appears to be a major concession from Donald Trump to the Ukrainians. I think they’ll be quite pleased with that."
He added: "As far as Donald Trump is concerned, this is absolutely vital. These rare earth metals are essential, with a wide range of applications in engineering and technology.
"Just about every household device contains some of these elements, whether in mobile phones, EarPods, X-ray machines, or even dental crowns. They have dozens of industrial uses.
"What concerns the U.S. is that, over the last decade, China has been cornering the global market in rare earths. While Ukraine has plentiful deposits, these elements are also found in countries like China and across Latin America.
Donald Trump and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy have come to an agreement
Reuters"China has been making deals throughout Africa to secure access to natural resources, and the US wants to ensure it has reliable access to its own supply of these critical materials.
"That’s what this agreement potentially offers the United States. But, as I say, there are still a lot of hurdles to clear before any minerals are extracted."
This comes as part of broader American efforts to reduce dependence on Chinese-controlled supply chains.
"This deal has already unlocked military aid to Ukraine. The White House has announced that military assistance will be provided," King noted.
It marks the first time President Trump has approved such aid since returning to office.
The agreement now awaits approval from Ukraine's parliament.
